A new study in China has demonstrated the promising potential of reed biomass for green hydrogen production using a pyrolysis-based chemical looping reforming (CLR) process. Researchers examined various reed components—whole reed, reed leaves, and reed stems—to determine optimal conditions for hydrogen generation, marking a step forward in waste-to-energy innovation.

The investigation revealed that mixed reed biomass yielded the highest hydrogen output under pyrolysis at 600°C, with volatile content reaching 76.29% and hydrogen yield at 1.73 mg per gram of reed. The study then applied a NiFe₂O₄ oxygen carrier to evaluate pyrolysis and CLR in tandem. Under optimal operating conditions—700°C with a 0.6 ml steam injection—volatile conversion peaked at 95.83%, resulting in a maximum hydrogen yield of 47.7 mg per gram of reed.

Advanced analytical techniques, including in-situ diffuse reflection infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric infrared analysis, were used to track the chemical transformations. The results suggested that methane dissociation and ketone conversion were likely rate-limiting steps in the hydrogen release process.

Importantly, the researchers also extrapolated the global potential of hydrogen production from reed biomass, underlining the relevance of this renewable pathway in a green energy future. The findings not only highlight a novel waste-to-hydrogen route but also support the broader aim of achieving low-carbon hydrogen production by harnessing abundant, non-food biomass resources.

This research provides essential data to advance sustainable hydrogen strategies, particularly in regions with plentiful reed growth and limited access to conventional renewables.

Source: 

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0016236125020757